It was about time: the Honda GL Gold Wing 2018 arrives with new features while keeping its spirit

Few motorcycles on the market are over 43 years old, which makes it a classic and a model that never goes out of fashion. The Honda Gold Wing was last updated in 2001, so we were eagerly awaiting a fresh overhaul of a motorcycle that, like few others, represents freedom on the open road and the spirit of travel. The Honda GL Gold Wing 2018 has already been unveiled and will soon be available at dealerships so that devoted fans of this model can get their hands on one.

The first notable change is the weight reduction this new version has undergone, 48 kilos less than the previous model, thanks to the use of an aluminium chassis and a newly designed fork. It uses a linkage system and a single shock absorber, which considerably improves its manoeuvrability. The four riding modes help enhance the riding experience, as they adjust the suspension to maintain control at all times, according to the type of riding required or preferred at any given moment.

The engine is a 6-cylinder horizontally opposed unit with 4-valve heads, and it contributes to that weight reduction, as the engine weighs 6.2 kg less than its predecessor. It can deliver 126.5 CV. As for the transmission, the new Gold Wing offers two options: a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-speed DCT transmission, while the throttle is electronic, with the ride-by-wire system.

Electronics feature prominently in this new version. Among the elements you will find on the motorcycle are the four riding modes: Tour, Sport, Eco and Rain, joined by Walking mode, which allows the motorcycle to be manoeuvred at low speed, both forwards and backwards. It also includes Idling Stop, a system that lets the motorcycle stop at idle and restart automatically. It further features hill start assist, as well as the Integrated Starter Generator and airbag, although the latter is only available on the DCT version.

And, knowing that comfort is important on a Honda Gold Wing, the rider will have at their disposal an instrument panel featuring a 7-inch TFT display with navigation, radio and even Apple CarPlay connectivity, along with everything needed to enjoy the experience of travelling aboard one of these legendary and highly valued motorcycles. What do you think of the new version of the Honda Gold Wing?